Wayanad, Kerala

The Wayanad forests have been inhabited for more than three thousand years. Wayanad was originally ruled by Vedar kings. However, after a Kshatriya Prince (Raja of Kumbala), was captured and held hostage in Tirunelli by the Vedars, it was invaded and annexed by a combined force led by the Raja of Kottayam and the Raja of Kurumbranad. The Vedar king (Arippan) was killed and most of his subjects were massacred. However, the Raja of Kumbala asked a Nair aristocrat, Nanthillath Nambiar to marry the daughter of the Vedar king, who had survived the massacre. Nambiar was appointed as the Moopil Nair of Veliyambam, where the surviving Vedars were resettled. It was decided that Wynad should be partitioned between Kottayam-Malabar and Kurumbranad. The Kottayam Raja was awarded North West Waynad and the Raja of Kurumbranad was awarded South East Wynad. As a result of disputes between them, the Kurumbranad Raja gave up his country to the Kottayam Raja, except for the palace and some landed properties. The Raja of Kottayam divided Wynad in to 10 Swaroopams (Naads) and appointed the governors (Usually Nairs with the tile of Vazhunnor) to rule each one of them.

Wayanad is situated at a height of 2100 meters above sea level in Kerala, Wayanad hill station is one of the most charming and calm hill stations of Kerala. The lush green vegetation, along with mist-clad hills and pure air will make your travel to Wayanad an unforgettable experience. It is a paradise and a must visit if you are traveling to Kerala. The hill station is covered with plantations of tea and spices, which gives a mystical touch to the place. Traveling to Wayanad will definitely be an experience of a lifetime.

Wayanad has many tourist attractions. There are many places around the place that are worth paying a visit. Not only excursions and tourist attractions, there are museums, sanctuaries, etc..

Transport

Places to See:

Banasura Dam

The largest earth dam in India, Banasura Dam is an ideal picnic spot to laze around and relax. Beautiful lush green hills surround a vast body of crystal clear water, thus enclosing it from most of the sides.

Lakkidi

Popularly called as the 'gateway to Wayanad', Lakkidi is located on top of Thamaraserri Ghat pass. Lofty mountains, gushing streams and lush forests add mysticism to the entire trip up the meandering roads.

Tusharagiri Waterfalls

The Tusharagiri waterfalls are located in the lofty regions of the Western Ghats. The word 'Tusharagiri' means snow capped mountains. Though there are no snow-capped mountains here, the pure white waterfalls look like snow that has engulfed the hilly areas of Western Ghats.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1973. It is in the protected network area of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by locals and tourists alike.

Vythiri

Vythiri is a beautiful place located in the dense thickets of the hilly ranges of Kerala. Popular for its refreshing and pollution free air, this place is a must visit as an excursion from Wayanad.

Edakkal Caves

Located at a distance of 10 kilometers from Wayanad, the Edakkal Caves are considered to be one of the earliest spots of human dwelling. The caves have beautiful carvings that depict primitive lifestyle. The caves have been formed out of three huge rocks, one resting on two of them thus, making a hollow space in between.

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum is located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Wayanad. It is regarded as one of the best heritage museums of Kerala. The museum has artifacts that date back to the 2nd century. These include artifacts like primitive weapons, bows and arrows and old clay idols and sculptures.

Chembra Peak

Situated at a height of 2100 meters above sea level near the lofty ranges of the Western Ghats, Chembra peak is a beautiful spot near Wayanad. The peak is an ideal spot for trekking and taking a walk along the undulating paths of the peak. 

Kuruva Island

Kuruva Island is located 17 kilometers from Wayanad and is a vast expanse of 950 acres of lush green forests. Situated on the Themkabani River, this island houses many rare species of birds, plants and animals.

Pakshipathalam

This scenic bird watching spot is located 1740 meters above sea level. It is an ideal place for trekking and bird watching. The undulating hills look absolutely gorgeous with steep sides, streams and unexplored forests.

Thirunelli Temple

The Thirunelli temple is located 30 kilometers from the Wayanad district. It is located in the Brahmagiri Hills and is often referred to as the 'Kashi of South'. The Papanasini River surrounds it and forms a natural boundary around it.

Valliyoorkkavu Temple

Valliyoorkkavu temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is worshipped among the tribal communities. It is located at a distance of around 3 kilometers from Mananthavadi and is popular for the 10 day-long annual festival that is celebrated in the month of April............
http://famousindiantouristplaces.blogspot.com